Law enforcement looking for public interest in Citizens’ Academy

Law enforcement in Chisago County believe that education is most effective in gaining understanding and support from the community.

The Chisago County Sheriff’s Office, Lakes Area Police Department, North Branch Police Department and Wyoming Police Department are offering county residents new insight into how police officers perform their duties as well as how the departments serve the community.

The Citizens’ Academy is an eight-week program where residents can attend a three-hour class, one night a week. Classes are taught by various law enforcement personnel and will provide community members the opportunity to ask questions and provide an understanding of the duties of law enforcement. The goal: to strengthen the partnership between police and citizens.

Participants take part in hands-on activities and learn about police use of force, criminal investigations, emergency communications, traffic stops, DWI demonstration and other topics.

After the successful completion of this program, citizens will be given an opportunity to ride along with a police officer for four hours during his or her shift.

Participants must be at least age 21, have a valid driver’s license and have no felony conviction on their records.

The Citizens’ Academy is set to start Sept. 18, with classes scheduled from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. (subject to change, if necessary). Applications are available on the Chisago County Sheriff’s Office website as well as each police department website.

Those with questions can contact Sgt. Tracy Armistead at 651-213-6317.